2.B R I E F S T A T E M E N T (n) a brief discussion or statement The manager wants a word. I was hoping you might put in a good word for (= say positive things about) me with your boss. Could I have a word (with you) about the sales figures? I'd like a quick/brief word (with you) before the meeting. Perhaps you would have a quiet word with Simon (= gently explain to him) about the problem. A word in someone's ear is a piece of secretly given advice or information. I think I'd better have a quick word in Patrick's ear and ask him not to mention it to anyone. In a word (= Briefly and directly), she's lying.